Project Info

Budget Information

I-5 - 48th St to M St Bridge – Concrete Pavement Rehabilitation

Status

January 2013

WSDOT is replacing 75 damaged concrete panels on 1.5 miles of I-5 between 48th and M streets in Tacoma to create a smoother driving surface.

The concrete poured nearly 50 years ago on I-5 between 48th and M streets in Tacoma is deteriorating. Our maintenance crews have been patching the pavement for years, but temporary fixes are expensive and just that, temporary.

Since mid-July, contractor crews have been busy removing and replacing 76 broken and cracked concrete panels on this busy stretch of I-5. They are also installing guardrail, paving and making other improvements.

Replacement of these panels requires overnight lane closures in both directions of I-5 through the summer. The project is scheduled to be complete in October.

The pavement in this area is 50 years old and pounded daily by cars, trucks, semi-trucks and oversized loads.

The freeway was not designed to withstand this level of heavy use. For years, the concrete panels and asphalt shoulders have been cracking under the weight of this daily pounding. The cracks widen and deepen with traffic and the annual freeze/thaw cycle hastening the deterioration process.

Additionally, wheel ruts carved by years of traffic are wearing lanes unevenly.

Maintenance crews do their best to patch cracks, fill potholes and make other spot repairs, but they can't keep up with the growing number of problems.

Why is WSDOT
rehabilitating I-5 between 48th and M streets in Tacoma?

This work will help preserve this section of I-5 so it lasts longer.

Drivers will get a smoother ride.

The End Result
The life of the existing concrete pavement on this portion of I-5 will be extended, preserving the investment in the roadway.

Project Benefits

A new, smoother road surface and less bumps and cracks in the roadway.

The new panels will eliminate existing holes and ruts, eliminating the frequent calls for pavement repairs.

This project preserves the freeways' structural integrity and extends its lifespan.

What is the project timeline?
July 2012 - begin constructionOctober 2012 - end construction